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“Hicktown” USA

Sheriff Ron “Hicktown” Hickman Greets Dr. Rhonda Shelby-King of Aldine ISD, along with Dr. Edwin Davis, Executive Director over Correctional and Community Affairs (Center) and Pastor Dayle Perry of Greater Mt. Zion MBC (far right) at a Community Lunch hosted at Burns Original BBQ

THIS IS A TIME FOR LESS TALK & MORE POLITICAL ACTION

uite possibly the single-greatest problem affecting this nation is law enforcement officers interaction with African-American males. If the all too frequently volatile interactions between law enforcement officers and African-American males are the single-greatest problem affecting this nation, it is a matter that has not gone unnoticed by citizens, community leaders, elected officials, or law enforcement leaders; each of whom is seeking an effective way to lessen the frequency of African-American citizens, particularly males, being killed by law enforcement officers. Maurice Muhammad, host of the radio show ‘Who did it to you?’ aptly describes the current mood of the African-American community in the following way; “We are at war!!!!!!! And the sooner our people realize this, the better off they will be in the long run.” To continue reading USA ~ see Pg. 4

NO LAUGHING MATTER

(l-r) Arnold Collins, Lawrence Lewis, Maurice Crockett, Cassandra Gee, Christopher Christie & Mary Taylor

GET OUT & VOTE!

Read ‘Vote’ ~ see Pg. 10

CEDRIC ‘THE ENTERTAINER’

See Health ~ see Pg. 9

“Get out and Early Vote October 19 - October 30, 2015” Election Day is November 3, 2015

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BIDEN PRESIDENTIAL RUN WON’T STOP HILLARY Earl Ofari Hutchinson Author & Political Analyst

The on again/off again media tease of a Joe Biden presidential run has been a long-running political soap opera. Now that there’s actually tangible hints courtesy of some purported Democratic Party insiders that Biden will jump in the race, the tongues are wagging even more furiously about what actual effect it will have not on the Democratic race, but on Hillary. The answer is simple. It will have none. The Biden-for-president talk has always been driven by a mix of misgivings about or outright hostility

Rev. Al Sharpton President, National Action Network

Roy Douglas Malonson Chairman Shirley Ann Malonson

President/C.E.O.

Chandra Jarmon

Production/Editor

Sandra Davis

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Contributing Writer

General: news@aframnews.com Ads: sales@aframnews.com Website: www.aframnews.com African-American News&Issues is published by African-American News & Issues, Inc., 6130 Wheatley Street, Houston, Texas 77091, (713) 692-1892. Our ofﬁce hours are Monday-Friday, 9am - 5pm. The entire contents of the paper are copyrighted by African-American News & Issues, Inc. All rights reserved. Material in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. African-American News&Issues is not responsible for any claims made by advertisers. The views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reﬂect the publisher. African-American News&Issues assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and other material, unless accompanied by a self-address stamped envelope.

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to Clinton as a presidential candidate, both within and without the Democratic Party. This was the big reason that more than a handful of nervous Democrats have relentlessly implored Biden to jump into the race. It’s worth noting that Biden, during the long-running mostly media drama about whether he will or won’t jump in, has publicly at least breathed not a single word about his intentions. Biden is too savvy and experienced a politician to tip his hand on that score. But Hillary has had much to do with that and that has nothing to do with her sterling, near ﬂawless performance at the ﬁrst Democratic presidential debate. Clinton has had months to formally, and more months informally, to build a strong support base among Democratic Party state and local leaders, corralled endorsements from labor and education

unions, a slew of top Democratic Party congresspersons and senators, as well as state and local elected ofﬁcials. She has secured a king’s ransom campaign war chest, and locked down support among many black, Hispanic, LGBT and women’s group leaders and organizations. She’s done something else that Biden has had to take note of. The rants, hectoring, harangue, and Inquisition-type, near hysterical efforts by the Republican National committee; a gaggle of ultra-conservative Super PACS; the parade of right-wing bloggers and websites; and witch-hunting GOPcontrolled congressional committees on Benghazi -- as well as her State Department emails -- have collapsed in disarray. Then a candid admission from GOP congressman Kevin McCarthy that the hearings were a blatant politically hatched effort to

WHAT’S MISSING FROM THE DEBATE STAGE? VOTING RIGHTS & CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM SPECIFICS

In the middle of the night last week in Durban, South Africa, I sat and watched the Democratic Presidential Debate. While I was invited to speak in that great city across the world, I made sure that I remained connected to what was happening here back home. Though I was happy to see front runners Bernie Sanders and Hillary Clinton mention criminal justice reform so that organizations like National Action Network can continue to ﬁght on behalf of people like Eric Garner and others, I was taken aback by the fact that there were no real speciﬁcs on what they would do in terms of police reform and mass incarceration. Equally surprising, there was no discussion about voting rights and current schemes

to undermine votes, especially in our community. When Blacks and Latinos are disproportionately impacted by these issues, they simply cannot be ignored on the national stage. Policing, mass incarceration and voting rights are three areas that any candidate running for office must address -- and they must do so with concrete specifics. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency recently announced that it was closing 31 of the state’s DMV offices, greatly inhibiting the ability of Alabamans to obtain a driver’s license or other form of ID now required to vote in that state. And it should come as no surprise that eight of the 10 counties with the highest proportion of minority voters is where these offices will close.

TEXAS • OCTOBER 26 - NOVEMBER 1, 2015

derail her presidential candidacy. There’s also Bernie Sanders. His challenge to Clinton is both healthy and real. However, he’s still miles back of her in the percentage of those who say they’ll back him in the key Southern and Western primaries that will come this spring. Then there are both the polls and Biden’s past performances as an actual presidential candidate. Polls show him lagging Sanders, and badly lagging Clinton in Democratic voter support. Biden has proven less than a stalwart pillar of Democratic strength on the campaign trail in his two prior residential efforts. In 1988 he was dogged by accusations of plagiarism and fabrication in his speeches and self-aggrandizing references to his past. He soon dropped out of the race. In 2008 he did even worse and didn’t get a single percentage point in the ﬁrst out the box Democratic

presidential Iowa caucus balloting. He quickly dropped out the race. There’s also not a whole lot to separate Biden from Clinton on. They are cut from the same political cloth: consummate party insiders, have a moderate centrist stance on the issues, and appeal to the same batch of like-minded Democratic core voters -- not to mention the top cat Democratic Party donors. In other words, Biden ﬁshes from the same Democratic Party stream as Clinton; the difference is she’s been at it a lot longer, and has done it a whole lot better. There’s no evidence that Biden, if he chooses to run, can do any better than Clinton in parrying off the assaults from the GOP over his gaffes, the hip lock with Obama, and his abysmal failures to mount any kind of credible, sustained campaign the times he was an actual presidential candidate.

According to published reports, at least half a million Alabamans, or 20% of registered voters, lack the newly required form of ID. In a state where the fight to gain the right to vote has such historical context and where we witnessed things like the Selma to Montgomery march decades earlier, it is outrageous that such a blatant attempt to suppress our vote is happening once again. Far too many fought, sacrificed and even died so that we could participate in the process of electing our leaders, and we are not going to sit back and stay silent as those rights are being trampled upon in 2015. Modern-day voter suppression isn’t confined to Alabama alone. For the past several years, dozens of states have adopted tough new voter ID laws that severely inhibit the poor, people of color, the elderly, those in rural com-

munities and others from voting. We may not be getting hosed or beaten on our way to the ballot box, but these under-handed tactics are just as detrimental to our ability to cast a vote. And the fact that no candidate has mentioned this major issue is simply inexcusable. National Action Network and I will be embarking on a winter tour to highlight the closing of DMVs and the catastrophic impact it has on our ability to vote.

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‘EMPLOYMENT MATTERS’ By: #WhoisDanFreeman

There is a popular saying that has historically been bantered throughout the American Labor Movement that goes something like this, “Without work, all is rotten.” And for anyone who has ever lost a job, or lived under the same roof as someone who has lost a job, they can attest to the fact that unemployment changes people in ways that could never be considered positive. One must remember that without employment, particularly after unemployment benefits have been exhausted, an individual is unable to participate in the American economy. Making matters worse is the reality that the vast majority of Americans, regardless of their economic class (poor, working, or middle) are not only tenuously employed --- meaning subject to the whims of company executives who would move their operation overseas if it meant even a slight increase in profit --- but also living ‘check-to-check’; translation, precariously standing on the verge of homelessness. There is no doubt that a critical aspect of maturation into adulthood is being gainfully employed and learning to manage one’s money. The management of one’s money is a process that one can be educated upon; however, it is only experience, meaning much trial and error that allows one to accomplish this feat. Most financial experts believe that the sooner that our children are introduced to work, finances, and economic matters, the better. Unfortunately for the majority of African-American youth, many of them are not being provided an opportunity to secure gainful employment, earn a decent paycheck, and learn how to balance their personal financial budget through no fault of their own. The largest obstacle to their successfully engaging what many consider the gateways to adulthood according to Democratic Party Presidential hopeful Bernie Sanders is “for young people who have graduated high school or dropped out of high school, who are between the ages of 17 and 20, if they happen to

be White, the unemployment rate is 33 percent. If they are Hispanic, the unemployment rate is 36 percent. If they are African-American, the real unemployment rate for young people is 51 percent.” There is a logical explanation for why African-American youth are less likely to ﬁnd employment than their White or Hispanic counterparts. That being, since the 1950s and 1960s Civil Rights Movement led the charge for Blacks to integrate with an openly hostile White community, the African-American community has seen Black owned businesses initially decline and eventually disappear. This decision to pursue integration with Whites was not only unwise, but also made African-Americans the odd ball in regards to racial uplift. Other racial/ethnic groups may publicly espouse the common rhetoric that all Americans should have the same rights and live as equals, yet, these groups are not foolish enough to abandon their communities, political base, or businesses in the hope that a dominant White class would welcome them in as equals. The current plight of unprecedented unemployment numbers for African-American youth is a direct result of African-American leaders’ unwise decision to attempt to integrate within White society. Such a decision has left the Black community in a beggars position pleading with Whites for employment, education, and political representation. Although I am certain that many are bothered by these facts and will rely upon the foolish position that we are all equal and race does not matter. Such thinking has left the African-American community in a parasitic position, meaning forced to live by sucking the blood of others as they have been incapable of sustaining themselves on their own. If we continue such thinking, the African-American community will never be able to lift themselves up economically via economic solidarity and unable to employ its own youth. As previously mentioned, ‘without work, all is rotten.’

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PLEASE DO NOT FORGET OUR HISTORY! FORGETTING WHAT - ROY DOUGLAS MALONSON HAPPENED TO US CAN DESTROY US!

A TIME FOR ACTIONS

There is absolutely no doubt that with the suffering that Black Houstonians have experienced that the problems, issues, and maladies affecting our population are well researched and known by all. Of course, recognizing the problem is merely one part of the problem and actually not of very much use unless it is followed with action. Fortunately for us, the action that is being required today is much different from the brutality, arrests, and even deaths that our ancestors faced while attempting to exercise their Constitutional Right of voting. The situation currently facing our community as we have talked about what we would like to see addressed in this city. However, there is once again only one way that we will be able to improve the lives of those living in the Black community and that is by getting out and casting a vote for those who we know are willing to represent our issues in a emboldened and forceful way. It is via the vote that Black Houstonians can guarantee in a city that is majority minority that the peculiar issues facing the Black community are neither put on the back-burner in favor of other groups, nor ignored completely by newly elected political officials. Make no mistake about it, the vote that you hold in your hand is similar to a weapon that you should be attempting to strategically use. Malcolm X once stated that we should consider the vote akin to a bullet that should only be fired when we find a most suitable target. Malcolm X also

advised that if you can not ﬁnd a suitable target that you should not cast your vote at all. So often it appears that African-Americans choice of elected ofﬁcials, particularly at the Mayor is akin to choosing between Satan, Lucifer, or the Devil. Clearly we are going to go to hell with all three. Fortunately, for Black Houstonians, the current ticket contains many attractive candidates that the community should throw their weight behind. I have always believed that appearing before the people are one of the best ways to determine who you will vote for. Now do not mistake my point to mean those politicians who will make an impromptu appearance at local Black churches right before the election as they are seeking to garner more votes. I am speaking about individuals who have serviced, volunteered, and worked toward the uplift of the AfricanAmerican community even when they are not seeking votes. For example, at the Galilee Missionary Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, several local politicians appeared in Acres Homes to meet-and-greet potential voters. A roster of 2015 Municipal Candidates were present to meet potential voters. I must agree with the Rev. Dr. Edwin A. Davis’ contention that “We’ve had enough forums, it is now time for the community to speak to each candidate face to face.” The following individuals were in attendance, and once again, I think that their presence and willingness to speak with

We MUST Understand By Roy Douglas Malonson, Chairman

potential voters should be factored in decision regarding who our community will vote for in this year’s coming election. Mayoral Candidates: Sylvester Turner, Ben Hall • Houston City Council Candidates: Vince Duncan, Chris Brown, Amanda Edwards, Roland Chavez, Jew Don Boney, Jennifer Pool, Andrew Burks. • Judicial Candidates: Erica William Carter, Ramona Franklin. Julie Countiss, and Kevinn Robinnson. • Aldine School Board: Patricia Bourgeoius, Tony Diaz • Houston ISD School Board: Dr. Youlette Jayne McCullough In the event that you are uncertain of which candidates platforms are pledging to address many of the maladies affecting the African-American community, please consult the roster of candidates that African-American News & Issues has endorsed; it can be found on the website www. AfrAmNews.com. Also remember that early voting has started and ends Friday October 30th for the city.

all original responses from Letter to the Editor Weourwelcome readers to content found in the

African-American News&Issues. Letters to the Publisher may be sent via e-mail to news@aframnews.com. Please keep all letters under 300 words. Be sure to include the author’s name, area of residence. All letters and articles may be veriﬁed before they are published. All letters are subjected to editing or being cut for spacing purposes. Thank you in advance for your submission.

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‘USA’ From Pg. 1

There are those who have called for multi-cultural training for officers, a complete overhaul of pre-existing police academy training, and/or community policing that would force officers to live in the area’s they patrol. Considering that the aforementioned solutions have met with mild success, Harris County Sheriff Ron Hickman, an individual that many African-Americans refer to as Ron “Hicktown” Hickman, is trying a different tactic. Mike Hinton relates that law enforcement leaders such as Hickman “…should be celebrated for trying something new and inventive to close the cavernous gap between law enforcement personnel and the African-American community.” Make no mistake about it, if anyone can offer insight into developing positive relations between the Harris County Sheriff Office and the local African-American community Ron Hickman appears to be qualified. His credentials are as follows. • Cum Laude graduate from the University of Alabama • Attended the Bill Blackwood Law Enforcement Management Institute (Sam Houston State University) • Attended the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Law Enforcement Executive Development Seminar (LEEDS) In addition to the above accomplishments, Sheriff Hickman presided over the Harris County Precinct 4 Constables Office for 14 years before being unanimously appointed to his current post as Sheriff of Harris County on May 12th, 2015 by the Harris County Commissioners Court. Sheriff Hickman has publicly proclaimed via his official website that his primary “…goal is striving to meet the community’s needs while exceeding their expectations.” One would hope that the Federal Bureau of Investigations Law Enforcement Executive Development Seminar that aims to ‘provide senior level law enforcement executives the opportunity to network and obtain instruction in legal issues, strategic planning, and employment law and police programs’ has equipped Harris County’s

relatively new Sheriff with the insight necessary to heal a long-standing divide between his agency and the African-American community. So after all of the above accolades and accomplishments that Sheriff Hickman has accomplished, please keep in mind that the aforementioned achievements are an abbreviated list of Hickman’s success, what is his plan to heal long-standing animosity with the African-American community? The answer is simultaneously befuddling, insulting, and ineffectual. In what appears to be an attempt to introduce himself to Black Houstonians, a step that many would think is necessary to develop a relationship with local Black citizens, Sheriff Hickman traveled to historic Acres Homes and purchased barbecue for a few local residents at Burns Original BBQ. I am absolutely certain that to this particular moment, Sheriff Hickman sees absolutely nothing wrong with his gesture that was intended to improve relations between the Harris County Sheriff Office and the African-American community. Even more problematic is that those African-American “leaders” and Sheriff Deputies, many of whom were African-American, who were present at the good ole’ barbecue failed to speak up, out of either ignorance or fear, and advise Hickman that this move is most certainly not the wisest choice. To those aware of this nation’s tumultuous racial past, Sheriff Hickman’s actions reminds one of a Jim Crow era that saw recently emancipated African-Americans being simultaneously ‘freed’ by the 13th Amendments abolishment of slavery, yet firmly held by social and economic chains, not to mention devoid of a political voice. It was not until the passage of the 15th Amendment that AfricanAmerican males were provided with very limited and fleeting access to the vote. African-American access to the vote must be considered limited and fleeting because of the underhanded ways that the Southern White aristocracy, who felt that they had historically run southern political matters for their sole benefit and saw no reason

C ver St ry

for ending the practice, created exceptions to the 15th Amendment such as the Grandfather Clause, literacy test, and eight-box law. The irony of the literacy test was that the vast majority of those testing African-Americans were illiterate themselves. According to historian James Jones, “this period of time, which extended well into the 1960s, is best remembered as a period where the African-American franchise was often cast to appease White elites” Whites’ were known to tell African-Americans if they should vote and for whom that vote should be cast were they allowed to use the franchise. I don’t even want to delve into the rampant cheating that occurred by Whites when votes were counted. Put simply, they rigged elections through various means, including, but not limited to: threats of violence, intimidation, lynching, cheating, violence, and bribery. Making matters worse, emancipated Blacks, who largely farmed for a living, were not provided land of their own so they consequently were forced to strike exploitive labor deals with former ‘owners’, a move that forced them to return to land that their ancestors had worked for decades, if not centuries as sharecroppers. According to James Evans, “It was not unusual to see multiple generations of African-Americans sharecropping. If you did not know any better, you would think that they were still enslaved. Generation after generation remained on the same land as if they were working a farm that they owned.” It is within this hellish existence that Whites whose power flowed from either money or political office routinely controlled the sharecropping population by either threatening them to not cast a vote or providing them with an insignificant token bribe to vote for the candidate that served elite southern Whites’ interests. Although I am certain that Sheriff Hickman’s gesture may have been well-meaning, it was most certainly not well thought out. From the perspective of many Black leaders, some of whom reside in Acres Homes, this outing reeks of disrespectful disregard for African-Americans who possess

Texas • October - November 1, 2015 Texas26• August 12-18, 2013

very real problems with law enforcement agencies; issues that a barbecue dinner will not impact. According to Roy Douglas Malonson, Publisher of African-American News&Issues,“We recieved a lot of phone calls from the community stating that the Sheriff was in the hood, and they had questions one being ‘What was up - Why was he here? Being that we had no knowledge, we reached out to who we know as the community outreach, Dr. Edwin Davis. We MUST Understand that if Sheriff Hickman or any of those Negroes who accompanied him to this ‘community outreach’ event (who seemed to have brushed their teeth with Gleem toothpaste that morning) were serious about tackling the problems facing not only Acres Homes, but also Black Houstonians, they would have requested an opportunity to speak with the community regarding the present state of relations. We are the voice of the community and our headquarters is right around the corner and we didn’t even know about the Meet and Greet. However, Hickman would never do such, because it would call for him to deal with the true leadership of Acres Homes. This is a serious matter because Harris County puts more Blacks in the prison system than any third world country” One must question the motives of the Harris County Sheriff Office regarding how this community relations event occurred as it was neither publicized nor were longstanding Black leaders of the Acres Homes area invited to the event. If I did not know any better, it appears as if Sheriff Hickman and the Harris County Sheriff Office formulated a plan for a publicity stunt that makes it appear that they are reaching out to Black Houstonians in an unprecedented manner while actually doing or achieving nothing. My investigation regarding this poorly-orchestrated publicity stunt leads me to suspect that Dr. Edwin Davis, Executive Director over Correctional and Community Affairs, (a former Major within the Harris County Sheriff Office); Dr. Davis was retained by Sheriff Hickman

in some capacity that apparently includes him working as a liaison/ community relations person. In many ways Dr. Davis is perfectly suited to serve as the bridge between the Harris County Sheriff Office and the Black community as he serves as the pastor of the Galilee Missionary Baptist Church as well as serving on the board of the Acres Homes Chamber for Business and Economic Development. Inexplicably, it is clear that Dr. Edwin Davis was not included in Sheriff Hickman’s planning although he was in attendance at the grand barbecue; apparently out of fear that his inclusion would have notified the Acres Homes Black leadership. Nicholas Malone of the Academic Grind Center observed that “it is downright disrespectful to think that a barbecue is capable of sweeping all of the discord Blacks have had with local law enforcement officers away. However, it appears to be little more than another sign of how out of touch law enforcement agency leaders are with the daily realities of African-Americans.” When considering the various means of addressing the prominent divide between law enforcement officers and the African-American community, Sheriff Hickman’s activities appear to be little more than a ‘publicity stunt’ that achieves absolutely nothing in the long-term. If provided the opportunity, I would simply tell Sheriff Hickman, as well as any other law enforcement entity seeking a similar tactic, that the path to better law enforcement interactions with the African-American community, particularly young AfricanAmerican males, will be a long and arduous path. Put simply, there is no quick fix to this issue. Although many would like to think that the issue of police brutality within the African-American community began a few years ago, the truth of the matter is that the only reason that it is a national issue today is the advent of cell phones; otherwise, Whites would continue to doubt the Continue reading online @ www.aframnnews.com

By: Dan Freeman Photos from HCSO Facebook

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Texas • OcTOber 26 - NOvember 1, 2015

CARING IN THE COMMUNITY Story & Photo Credit By: Shelondra Peavy

Throughout history, the words of a particular Negro spiritual has been sung with conviction as follows: “All on my job, I’m gonna let it shine… Yes, all on my job, I’m gonna let it shine… All on my job, I’m gonna let it shine… Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.” And in like manner, the song makes mention of other times and places where a person’s light is expected to shine: “In my home, in my neighborhood, everywhere I go… I’m gonna let it shine.” That said; it’s clear that the writer of this song knew the importance of each and every person allowing their presence to brighten their immediate environment. For, just as surely as it is for any person who has been travelling on a long and dark road, a light of any sort is certainly a welcomed sight. This is true because light brings a sense of hope and relief. The same fact applies to our everyday journey of life as well. With this is mind, it seems like it would be more than fitting to seize the opportunity to magnify the light that is being shone at a very familiar place in the community where I live; Acres Homes. At the Family Dollar store located at 8624 W Montgomery Rd, the store attendants have regularly offered kindness,

Community

compassion, and respect to the array of different people that cross their paths on a daily basis. In fact, their heartfelt compassion is so genuine that it literally reaches outside of the company doors and directly onto the front porches of certain neighborhood residents. In recent days, during one of my frequent trips to this store, I witnessed what I perceived to be an ultimate act of compassion and concern. As opposed to the typical unemotional machine-like smile and head-nod that one would anticipate from their local store clerk, I was greeted with a firm and sincere hug when I approached the sidewalk in front of Family Dollar. As she greeted me, one of the employees, Ms. LaTonya Jenkins spoke to me about a matter which she had obviously assumed that I was familiar with. “I just came from visiting Miss Sarah.” She said, as she pointed to a quaint little yellow house that was sitting fewer than 200 feet away from where we stood. Of course, she eventually had to explain that “Miss Sarah” is a little lady who’s a repeated customer of hers. Miss Sarah also happens to be an elderly woman whose husband was recently released from a hospice facility into the loving care of his immediate family as they wait together in somber expectation for him to make his final transition into an eternal place of rest. Ms. LaTonya Jenkins continued with her story as one of her coworkers (Ms. Vanessa

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Wolford) chimed in on the tail-end of the conversation. “Yeah… I knew he wasn’t feeling well, because I haven’t seen him in a while.” Vanessa mentioned. Then she went on to confirm “That’s the man who we come from around the counter to help him get the items that he needs, right?” Ms. Jenkins nodded in agreement. Following suit, a “general customer / Acres Homes citizen” (Mr. Crawford) also joined in by asking about the dying man with a concerned tone “Did y’all just come from over there? Did y’all see him?” In a world that is saturated with harm, selfishness, greed, corruption, and other forms of darkness, it’s a very commendable and illuminative concept when people use their time and energy to add a ray of light to someone else’s day. The fact is: We never know how much a simple kind gesture could impact another person’s overall state of being. Likewise, we don’t even realize how our actions, no matter how small they may seem, could restore joy and hope in the heart and mind of our fellow man. As for Miss Sarah; she posed, by request, for a photo to accompany this article while softly stating “I really can’t talk much about this right now… Too much is happening at one time… I can’t really talk about my husband right now.” Her heartbreak was evident. And understandably, there is very little that can be done to completely relieve the pain that Miss Sarah will feel once her husband and

LeFt to rIGht:

GWenDoLyn WaLker, mrs. sarah raVen, Vanessa WoLForD, anD Latonya JenkIns

companion of 54 years precedes her death. Yet, with one “smile” and one “visit” at a time… with one “hug” or delightful “phone call” each day… with one “thumbs up” or “pat on the back” per week, we can all serve as agents of light for one another. Thankfully, the workers at the Family Dollar on my block appear to totally understand this concept. 1) Personally escorting elderly customers from aisle to aisle in order to ensure that they get what they need. 2) Home visits 3) Occasionally reaching into your own pocket for spare change and using those coins to assist a person in paying for their

UNDERSTANDING THE LAW: CONTESTED AND UNCONTESTED DIVORCE

Unfortunately, divorce has become a very common occurrence in modern society. Often spouses find that they are no longer able to coexist as a married couple and decide to separate. The act of separating is not enough to end a marriage in Texas. Texas does not recognize legal separations; the only way to legally end a marriage in Texas is to pursue a divorce. A divorce is a legal proceeding that ends a marriage. There are two types of divorce: contested divorce and uncontested divorce. A divorce is contested when spouses are unable to agree to the terms of the divorce. In order to be granted a divorce by the court, spouses must come to a mutual agreement on several terms such as: division of assets, allocation of debt, custody, child support, and spousal support. In a contested divorce proceeding one or more of these terms has become a point of contention and the spouses are unable to come to an agreement. Contested divorces are often lengthy and expensive; they are not resolved until the parties reach a settlement agreement or go to trial. An uncontested divorce is a divorce proceeding where both spouses agree about all the terms of the divorce. Uncontested divorce proceedings consist of filing the required paperwork with the court, waiting the designated time period required by

total accumulated tab. The aforementioned actions are definitely not requirements or specific job duties for the staff at this or any other store location, yet these and similar acts of generosity have become extremely common. On the other hand, it is indeed a divine requirement for each and every one of us to love others as we would love ourselves. In like manner, it is our specific supernatural duty to display tender gentleness to others. Essentially, we’ve all been commissioned to let our little lights shine. to ContInUe reaDInG VIsIt WWW.aFramneWs.Com

Krystin

law, and attending court to have the divorce finalized. Collins It is a much less stressful and painful experience than a contested divorce proceeding. Attorney You are not required to hire an attorney when at Law getting a divorce you have the right to represent yourself, which is commonly referred to by the court as pro se. If your divorce is contested most likely you will have to hire an attorney to help you navigate the process, but if your divorce is uncontested you may decide to forego legal representation and act as a pro se litigant. I recommend that any person seeking a divorce consult with an attorney before initiating divorce proceedings to get a better understanding of the complex task ahead.

Attorney Krystin Collins is a native of the Acres Homes Community. She is a graduate of Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law and has been a licensed attorney since 2009. Her primary practice areas are criminal defense, civil litigation, personal injury, estate planning, and divorce. She may be contacted at 713-775-0332 or krystin.collins@gmail.com.

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Volume 20 Issue 3 Volume 20 Issue 40 Oc

n-American News&Issues • Texas • February 10-16, 2010• 7

Marketplace

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ACCOUNTANTS

BAPTIST CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE

ELECTRONIC

8 AM and 11 AM BIBLE STUDIES

Member AICPA

MICHAEL LOVE, CPA

Email: mlovecpa@yahoo.com www.michaellovecpa.net 713-666-2900 Office 713-666-2932 Fax 2626 South LoopW, #420 Houston,TX 77054

ALUMNI

B.T. Washington Houston ISD Alumni

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G.W. Carver School Alumni of Aldine ISD

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BEAUTY SHOP

er school enrichment programs are ofNATURAL 0-5:45 daily. Reese will be KREATIONS unaffected by

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Photo: Aldine ISD 281-898-4716 11718 SOUTH WILCREST elimination. Other schools would HOUSTON, TX 77099 be Smith, Stovall, Harris and Hill, all based on the samethose criteria.whom StuSupport dents of magnet programs that had support you! to been eliminated would return their home campus and given first CHAMBER priority forBLACK available slots in other magnet programs, with the exception of 4th grade students, who will be given the option of continuing at Houston Academy. Staff will be placed into 713-692-7161 vacant positions on other campuses. 6112 WHEATLEY ST The order would haveTX given HOUSTON, 77091the magnet program a protected status CHEMICAL and funds from the government would have been provided for their operation. Also, several events and items were reduced eliminatCitywideor Chemical ed, such asJanitorial the magnet and & festival Commercial technology fair. proposed cuts PestThe Control Company 3521 Jensen St. were approved by district trustHouston, TX 77026 713/227-4808 or 4809 ees at the January 25 school board Janitorial Supplies meeting before a packed house of Sales-Service-Supplies incensed parents and student. But Wholesale-Retail We repair Bamberg warns the cuts maybuffers, still vacuum, shampooers not be enough to meet and allthe otherneeds machines. Charles of the nation’s 12th largest district. SAME DAY FREE DELIVERY Dawson US METRO Administrators say they still need Dawson Chemical Chemical & Janitorial Supply Company & Janitorial Supply Company the budget. $18 million to balance 6010 Irvington -Hou.,TX 77009 4308 Kelley St. • Hou., TX 77026 “The only713/633-9019 way we’re 713/697-7137 going to get additional revenue at this point CHURCH is to look to the community,” said Bamberg, alluding to the need for Cliffdale increased property Baptisttax revenue, which could be as much as 13 cents Church per $100 value of property. (281) 447-8850 Ed.- Last week’s story, provided ENTERPRISE ST Pastor inaccurate854demographics for AISD. HOUSTON, TX 77088 Fred Sanders The correct numbers are 68.2 percent Hispanic, HOU-627 percent AfricanAmerican, 2.2 percent White.

Wednesday 7:30PM Leonard N. Barksdale, Pastor Fifth Ward Missionary Baptist Church 4300 Noble Street, Houston TX 77020 Ph: 713/675-5111 • Fx: 713/675-1522

Website: www.fwmbc.org

Fifth Ward Missionary Baptist Church members will endeavor to provide a strong foundation of love; we will stand on Biblical Truths; and we will equip one another to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ in our community and in our (713) 697-1758 world. 6616 D.S. BAILEY LN

Galilee M.B.C

Rev. Edwin A. Davisr, Pastor

TX 77091 CHURCHHOUSTON, OF CHRIST

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Baptist Church Sunday

Morning Bible Class 9:30 a.m. (713) 699-4448 Morning Worship6719 COHN ST Rev. Joseph 10:45 a.m. HOUSTON, TX 77091 Baker, Pasor Evening Bible Class 5:00 p.m. Evening Worship 6:00 p.m. Chorus Group Rehearsal 7:30 p.m.

House of Prayer Wednesday M.B.C.

Mid-Week Bible Class (281) 773-2750 7:00 p.m.

3521 DESOTO ST

MINISTER: Theaster Maloy, Sr.

Rev. Lloyd OFFICE: 713/674-5131 Giles, Pastor HOUSTON, TX 77091

140 Fidelity Rd. Houston Tx 77029

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746 West 22nd Street CHURCH OF GOD Houston, Texas 77008 IN CHRIST 713-869-4529

DUNCAN MEMORIAL “Committed to the Future”

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This should be your ad! Feature

Texas • October 26 - November 1, 2015

HUNTING

RS DEER & CATTLE RANCH

PUBLIC NOTICE Kitchen Pipe Replacement (Bid) Houston First Corporation requests bids from experienced entities to replace approximately 931.5 feet of drainage pipe at the George R. Brown Convention Center. Bid documents are available online at www.houstonfirst.com/ do-business. Questions should be submitted by e-mail to bids@ houstonfirst.com.

This is the price and size f Volume 20 Issue 3 www.rsdeerranch.com 979-921-9908 Volume 20 Issue 40 Oc Whitetail, Axis, & Blackbuck Deer Hunt All Year Round

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PUBLIC NOTICE Ramp Expansion Joint Replacement and Waterproofing (Bid) Houston First Corporation requests bids from experienced entities to replace certain expansion joints on the loading dock ramp at the George R. Brown Convention Center. Bid documents are available online at www.houstonfirst. com/do-business. Questions should be submitted by e-mail to bids@houstonfirst.com.

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Community Writers

Searching for for community news chasers. Follow what goes on in your community and report on it Call 713-692-1892 For more information

Greenspoint Carverdale Inwood Acres Home Hidden Valley Alief Homestead Trinity Garden Sunnyside Fifth Ward Sharpstown Braeswood Place Fondren Westbury Kashmere Clinton Park Fourth Ward Third Ward South Park South Acres Crestmont Park Northshore Independence Heights Fort Bend

Please sign for approval by 12 NOON Wednesday the week befo

Signature

Please sign for approval by 12 NOON Wednesday the week befo

Signature

Texas • OcTOberber 26 - NOvember 1, 2015

OCT

Monday Aldine ISD Free Evening Meals During School Year All Middle & High School Students For more info contact: (281) 985-6213

Monday

Joe StepheNS For JUStiCe oF the peACe pCt. 3 poSititoN 1

Joe Stephens Campaign Golf Tournament & Catﬁsh & Shrimp Fry Dinner 500 Normandy Rd. Houston, TX 77015 From 11am -12:30pm For more info contact: (713) 240-2886 www.VoteJoeStephens.com

Oct 27 - Oct 28 Tuesday - Wednesday American Association of Blacks in Energy 2015 Women’s Global Leadership Conference 1200 Louisiana St Houston, TX 77002 For more info contact:

What’s Happenin’ 14 7 Saturday American Association

Friday Aldine ISD AEF Golf Tournament 13300 Longwood Trace Cypress, TX 77429 Beginning at 8:30am For more info contact: (281) 914-1916

Friday Hoffman MS Aldine ISD Color Fun Breast Cancer Run/Walk 6101 West Little York Rd Houston, TX 77091 From 2pm - 4pm For more info contact: (713) 613-7670

Saturday AKA Sorority, Inc. Mu Kappa Omega Chapter 3E Workshop Series 3333 Hurricane Ln Missouri City , TX 77459 Beginning at 9am For more info contact: (713) 569-0539 Saturday JDawg & RayFace Halloween Day Block Party 860 Dollywright St Houston, TX 77088 Beginning at 2pm For more info contact: (832) 630-3457

NOV Thursday

THIS SHOULD BE YOUR EVENT s e n d i n Q u i r i e s to

neWs@aFraMneWs.CoM

Saturday Houston Children’s Charity 19th Annual Gala **SpeCiAl GUeSt** Earth, Wind & Fire 1200 LouisianaSt Houston, TX 77002 Beginning at 6:30pm For more info contact:

www.houstonchildrencharity.org

Saturday Acres Home Chamber for Bus. & Eco. Dev, Inc. Digital Computer Class 6112 Wheatley St Houston, TX 77091 From 11am -12:30pm For more info contact: (713) 692-7161

Saturday Hope Espiscopal Church Health Hope Fair 1613 W. 43rd St Houston, TX 77018 From 10am - 2pm For more info contact (713) 674-7021

Sunday First Baptist of Lincoln City BC FBC Praise Dancers 844 Fortune St Houston, TX 77088 Beginning at 11:30am For more info contact: (832)892-5078 Friday Association of Fundraising Professionals National Philanthropy Day 1600 Lamar St Houston, TX 77010 Beginning at 11am For more info contact: (713) 266-2800

American News&Issues

Friday St. Philip’s College Celebrating a Saint **ARTEMISIA BOWDEN HOLY WOMAN** 1801 MLK Dr San Antonio, TX 7778203 Beginning at 5:30pm For more info contact: (210) 486-2900

aframnews.com

Saturday Highland Heights Lodge No. 200 Health Fair & Food Drive • Acres Home MSC 6719 W. Montgomery Rd Houston, TX 77091 • 3rd Ward MSC 3611 Ennis Houston, TX 77004 • NorthEast MSC 9720 Spaulding Houston, TX 77016 From 10:30am - 2:30pm For more info contact: (832) 893-9633

Saturday Let the Fashions Begin Men of Style Gala 5150 Westheimer Rd Houston, TX 77056 Beginning at 6pm For more info contact: www.letthefashionbegin.com

Saturday UNCF Houston 27th Annual Gala “A Mind Is...” 1600 Lamar St Houston, TX 77010 Beginning at 6pm For more info contact: (713) 942-8623 Saturday Acres Home Chamber for Bus. & Eco. Dev, Inc. Digital Computer Class 6112 Wheatley St Houston, TX 77091 From 11am -12:30pm For more info contact: (713) 692-7161

info@acreshomecenter.org MUST RSVP 6 ATTENDEES NEEDED MINIMUM6

info@acreshomecenter.org MUST RSVP 6 ATTENDEES NEEDED MINIMUM

Tuesday Windsor Houston Networking Luncheon 6920 TC Jester Blvd Houston, TX 77091 Beginning at 9:30am For more info contact: (281) 224-0280

Nov 14 - Dec 30

WGLConference.com

Thursay iprayz Gospel Party 1112 Southmore Blvd Houston, TX 77004 Beginning at 6pm For more info contact: (800) 319-9231 Friday American Association of Blacks in Energy Golf Tournament 3102 FM 1960 E Humble, TX 77338 Beginning at 6:45am For more info contact: (281) 389-0189

of Blacks in Energy Light Swap Program 1024 Pinemont Dr Houston, TX 77091 From 10am - 2pm For more info contact: (832) 458-1615

African

terrY williAMS Vp oF operAtioN hoUStoN h-e-B

Acres Home Chamber for Bus. & Eco. Dev, Inc. Networking Luncheon 6112 Wheatley St Houston, TX 77091 From 11am -12:30pm For more info contact: (713) 692-7161 info@acreshomecenter.org

Saturday - Wednesday Ensemble Theatre A Soulful Christmas 3535 MAIN ST. Houston, TX 77002 Times Vary For more info contact: (713) 520-0055 Saturday American Association of Blacks in Energy 2015 Energy Workshop 3100 Cleburne St Houston, TX 77004 From 8:30am - 3pm For more info contact: (713) 550-6936

HOU-7

African

American News&Issues

Educati n/Y uth

HISTORIC RIBBON CUTTING AND TREE PLANTING CEREMONY

TEXAS • OCTOBER 26 - NOVEMBER 1, 2015

BOARD OF EDUCATION APPROVE CLASS-SIZE WAIVERS FOR 2015-2016 SCHOOL YEAR

The Houston Independent School District Board of Education on Thursday voted to approve a plan to submit 875 class-size waivers to the state for the 2015-2016 school year – more than a 40 percent decrease compared with the previous year. State law requires each school district in Texas to conduct a class-size enrollment survey to ensure that kindergarten through fourth-grade classes have no more than 22 students per classroom. Classes that exceed that number must request a waiver from the Texas Education Agency. Last year, HISD had to submit nearly 1,500 class-size waiver requests that meant more than 4,300 students were in over-sized classrooms. This year, the number of students in over-sized classrooms is reduced almost by half. Recently trustees voted to: • Approve a plan to issue a request for proposals from superintendent search firms. HISD Superintendent Terry Grier has said he plans to step down on March 2, 2016, and the board is beginning the process of searching for his replacement. According to a timeline established by the board last month, trustees would interview potential search firms in the latter half of November, with the ultimate goal of making a final firm selection in December. Once a search firm is selected, the board will begin gathering community input on the search process. • Give final approval to revisions to the district’s policy for naming and renaming school buildings and other district facilities. The policy revision, which received preliminary board approval in September, outlines a process for which school trustees could initiate the renaming of a facility, if they believe it to be in the best interest of the district. It also calls for all new names to be in accordance with the district’s non-discrimination policies. • Approve a contract to begin abatement only in a portion of Yates High School. Abatement is the first step in preparation for construction of a new school, which is being built under the 2012 bond program.

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee released the following statement today after holding a Ribbon Cutting and Tree Planting ceremony at the Charles Drew Academy Garden in Aldine ISD and announce the awarding of a Grant for its Community Garden: “Today I am pleased to announce a historic Public/Private project between the 18th Congressional District, Drew Academy and the Aldine Independent School District. This historic project will give a hands-on outdoor lesson to Drew Academy students on how to build, plant and maintain a school garden who have likely never experienced what it is like to grow their own food. “I would like to thank U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Dr. Joe Leonard and Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack for their commitment to providing community gardens to underserved communities. Drew Academy is a perfect example of how partnerships between the federal government (USDA’s Ofﬁce of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights and Natural Resource Conservation TX-8

Service and the Aldine Independent School District can work together on behalf of children. “I am proud to be a part of an effort that is helping to reconnect our children to the land and hopefully inspire the next generation of farmers and conservationists. Too many times we take for granted what lies beneath our feet. The soil that our streets, houses and buildings sit upon is also the same soil that feeds us, helps ﬁlter our water and puriﬁes our air. “I have worked closely with the United States Department of Agriculture and the USDA and both have been committed to community gardens, especially in underserved communities. Through efforts like this one here in Texas, USDA has invested in community gardens because of their ability to provide fresh, local produce as well as an avenue for exercise. “Childhood nutrition is so vital. We must create an atmosphere where our children know exactly where their food is coming from and get excited about fruits and vegetables due to having ownership. TO CONTINUE READING VISIT WWW.AFRAMNEWS.COM

PRINCIPAL J.J. ROBERTS AND VOLLEYBALL COACH ASHLEY DEDMON (BACK CENTER, FROM LEFT) ARE SHOWN WITH VOLLEYBALL TEAM MEMBERS.

FORT BEND ISD – In support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and to honor family members and friends who are battling the disease, Fort Bend ISD students and staff are taking part in various events and activities throughout the month of October. FBISD Administration Building employees donned pink attire and carried “I walk for…” signs as they walked around the building to support those near and dear to their hearts. The District’s Health and P.E. division sponsored the event, and more than 30 employees participated. Baines Middle School kicked off the month-long observation with its annual Lynn Armstrong Breakfast, held in memory of former Blue Ridge Elementary School principal Dr. Lynn Armstrong. The girls volleyball team welcomed guests and provided them with helpful resources.

TEXAS • OCTOBER 26 - NOVEMBER 1, 2015

Health

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NO LAUGHING MATTER

It is fairly common for those African-Americans who have reached superstar status through athletics, singing, or comedy to be criticized by the Black community for their failure, not inability, to address the myriad maladies afflicting the Black community. Far too often, this charge of ignoring issues within the AfricanAmerican community is valid in regards to the vast majority of Black stars/starlets. For such individuals, they have seemingly not found a cause to champion. All too often, the causes and issues that we choose to champion have entered our lives in an unexpected manner. Such was the case when I began to actively support the fight against breast cancer after one of my most beloved cousins succumbed to the disease prior to her 40th birthday. Comedian extraordinaire Cedric “The Entertainer” has found himself pulled into a similar cause as a result of his father, who was diagnosed with Type-2 diabetes four years ago, experiencing horrible bouts with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, a condition that is commonly referred to as diabetic nerve pain. During a recent interview with African-American News&Issues, Cedric recalls that “my dad, being the strong unshakable Black man never mentioned the pain that he was experiencing with anyone in the family. However, over time it became clear that there was something wrong. My father always kept his yard immaculate. He personally cut his own grass and pruned his own bushes on his corner lot. Although we initially attributed the decline of the yard from its pristine state to his age, I was alarmed when he began using a riding lawn mower to cut his relatively small patch of grass.” Equally alarming for Cedric was watching his father cut back on one of his favorite pastimes, golfing. “Instead of playing 18 holes of golf as we normally did. He would seek a rest after only seven or eight holes.” It was only after visiting his doctor did Cedric’s father learn that what he was experiencing was diabetic peripheral neuropathy (diabetic nerve pain) and that the condition was treatable. Cedric related that he was

shocked to learn that twenty-percent of the people with diabetes experience the burning, pins-and-needles shooting pain that most often occurs in their feet and hands.

Pictured is a Diabetic Foot. It can lead to discoloration of the foot as well as Amputation... Cedric ‘The Entertainer encourages you to Step on Up & get checked

As previously mentioned, the causes that individuals champion often enter our lives in unexpected, yet highly personal, ways. Although Cedric “The Entertainer” superstar status lends to him having a relatively notable platform from which to speak, his voice would be exponentially magnified as a result of his association with the medical company Pfizer. Cedric recalls, “I was working on millionaire and Pfizer was one of the largest purchasers of commercial time. The idea of this campaign (to fight diabetic nerve pain) came about during a dinner that I had with representative of Pfizer. After hearing my story about my father, we agreed to collaborate with the American Diabetes Association. Out of that collaboration came the Step on Up movement. The Step on Up movement seeks to educate the entire nation, particularly the 29 million Americans who are currently suffering from diabetes, about diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Cedric is convinced that there is a desperate need for such a movement as he reasons that if his father, whom he is extremely close to, would not share his struggles with diabetic nerve pain with anyone, including his doctors, there must be thousands of others who are experiencing the same thing. According to Cedric, “the initiative is first and foremost aimed at empowering those suffering from diabetic nerve pain to address the

matter with their doctor.” Marjorie Cypress, PhD, CNP, CDE, President, Health Care & Education, American Diabetes Association. “This program will help provide resources for people living with diabetes to learn more about diabetic nerve pain, assess their symptoms and encourage them to talk with their health care provider about steps they can take to better manage their pain.” As with most health issues in America, non-White populations suffer disproportionately. Cedric related that African-American adult diabetics suffer more severely than their White counterparts in regards to diabetic nerve pain. In fact, one third of those aged 40 years and above suffering from this troubling condition is African-American or Hispanic. Incredibly, African-American adults are 70% more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes than non-Hispanic White adults. Sadly, 60% percent of non-traumatic lower-limb amputation that are performed on people over 20 years of age are associated with diabetes. According to Cedric, “A major aspect of what the African-American community is ﬁghting against is cultural. My father is part of an era where men did not complain, they served as the rock for their family, regardless of the cost; even to the detriment of their health. So going to the doctor was one of the last things on their agenda. Of all the traditions that our community has maintained, this is one of the most dangerous because annual physicals and examinations are not a part of our routine… We often behave as if we are not told about medical problems that they do not exist.” It is this position that says awareness and information from a medical profession leads to a decline in health and eventual death that most frightens African-American men. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in the year of 2011, 16% of those living with diabetes were diagnosed between the ages of 18 and 39 years of age, so early check-ups and detection are imperative for all, regardless of age. TO CONTINUE READING VISIT WWW.AFRAMNEWS.COM BY: DR. JAMES THOMAS JONES III, PHD

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Prominent African-American Leaders in Houston Endorse Proposition 1

HOUSTON – Leaders from Houston’s AfricanAmerican community announced their support for the Equal Rights Ordinance, or Proposition 1, at a news conference at the NAACP Houston Branch today. Those speaking out in favor of Proposition 1 today included Dr. James M. Douglas, President of the NAACP Houston Branch; Judson Robinson III, President and CEO of the Houston Area Urban League; and Vernita Harris, Chair of the Greater Houston Black Chamber. Brandon Ball and Dan Scarbrough, two of the three young African American men who faced discrimination at the GasLamp night club last month, also advocated for the Equal Rights Ordinance. Discrimination remains a major problem for the African-American community in Houston – 56 percent of the discrimination complaints reported to the city between May 2014 and September 2015 were tied to instances of racebased discrimination.

“The Equal Rights Ordinance gives all of us a voice. It puts Houston on the record as wanting to protect all of its people from discrimination,” said Dr. James M. Douglas, President of the NAACP Houston Branch. “The truth is, when we look back, we’ll see that the opponents of this ordinance will have been on the wrong side of history. Houston needs a local tool to address the many cases of discrimination that still occur to this day, and I believe the Equal Rights Ordinance is that tool.” “We don’t believe in discrimination. We believe in equal opportunity and access for all people,” said Judson Robinson III, President and CEO of the Houston Area Urban League. “This is an all-people ordinance. I encourage the voters to support it.” Brandon Ball and Dan Scarbrough spoke from personal experience about the discrimination they recently faced when they, along with their friend Ken Piggee, were

VOTER’S GUIDE

told they would have to pay a $20 cover to enter the GasLamp in Midtown – even as White patrons streamed into the club, free of charge. “Here in Houston, there’s no local ordinance for us to use to attack that discrimination,” said Ball. “Everybody talks about change, but a lot of people sit on the sidelines. The Equal Rights Ordinance represents transformational change. What are we going to do about it? Are we going to talk about it? Are we going to read about it? Let’s make change happen.” The NAACP Houston Branch is a non-profit organizational unit of the National Association of the Advancement of Colored People. It was established in 1918 to help the un-served and underserved communities of color within Houston/ Harris County.

Early Vote Oct. 19 - 30 Election Day Nov. 3

Texas • October 26 - November 1, 2015

Less Talk & More Political Action By: Dan Freeman

I routinely find myself involved in discussions that revolve around how we solve the political inefficiency that masquerades as powerlessness within the African-American community. It is a conversation that I have tired of for one particular reason; the vast majority of individuals who engage me in such conversations are not politically active. The individuals that I speak of have made a critical error in mistaking their rhetoric for political activism. The alluded to rhetoric amounts to little more than unfocused discourse regarding both how unfair the system is and how participating in the current political system is an absolute waste of time for African-Americans. Despite what many who profess an undying determination to uplift the race fail to realize is that political empowerment, a critical ingredient in the uplift/ improvement of any American group, is not quantum physics. In fact, it is a very simple process. It is my belief that African-Americans need to spend much less time standing on the sidelines and criticizing the existing system. Unfortunately, many erroneously believe that the rabble rousing we witness by self-proclaimed race leaders is a suitable substitute for political activism. Instead of following the example of such individuals who consistently find themselves on local news stations ‘talking loud and saying nothing’, it is time that the African-American community adopt an alternative view of the political process that they have not possessed for

nearly fifty-years. The proposed position calls for African-Americans to abandon ineffective rhetoric and begin the process of researching both the issues facing their community and the platform of those seeking their vote. The new modus operandi for the African-American community has to demand that every candidate, regardless of their political party, must come before the community and explain how their platform will not only serve the Black community, but also is a preferable option to their opponent. Finally, there must be a consensual agreement within the entire community regarding which candidate best addresses the maladies/issues afflicting the African-American community. Although there is much discussion regarding a citizen’s right to vote for whomever they please, history indicates that American groups that have improved their politico economic position in America do not operate in such a manner. They understand that within a Representative Democracy, you win according to numbers. And the most assured manner that a group can flex its political muscle is via collectivism. The implementation of political collectivism calls for African-Americans to develop the ability to disagree regarding the path to improvement, yet never lose sight of the ultimate goal, politico economic improvement for the entire community. The final step to political empowerment may just be the simplest of all; just get out and vote.

Early Voting for AISD Bond, Board Underway Until Oct. 30

Early voting for Aldine ISD’s $798 bond referendum and school board election is underway and will run through Friday, October 30. Election Day is Tuesday, November 3. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. on November 3. Registered voters can vote at any polling location in Harris County during the early voting period. A list of early voting times and locations is available at www.harrisvotes.com. If approved by voters, the $798 million bond referendum would provide for the construction of new schools, major renovations of some of the older schools in the district, security and technology upgrades and other projects to meet the growth needs of the school district over the next five years. In addition to the bond election, Aldine ISD will hold a trustee’s election on November 3 for Positions 1, TX-10

2, 6 and 7. Patricia Ann Bourgeois holds the Position 1 seat. Tony Diaz opposes Bourgeois in the Position 1 race. Paul Shanklin holds the Position 2 seat. Carleen “Jinx” Kerr opposes Shanklin in the Position 2 race. Merlin D. Griggs holds the Position 6 seat. He is running unopposed in the Position 6 race. Dr. Viola M. Garcia holds the Position 7 seat. She is running unopposed in the Position 7 race. Harris County reminds voters that in 2011, the Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill 14 creating a new requirement for voters to show photo identification when voting in person. Voters are now required to present an approved form of photo identification in order to vote in all Texas elections. Below is a list of the acceptable

forms of ID. •Texas driver license issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) •Texas Election Identification Certificate issued by DPS •Texas personal identification card issued by DPS •Texas concealed handgun license issued by DPS •United States military identification card containing the person’s photograph •United States citizenship certificate containing the person’s photograph •United States passport For more information about voter identification, contact the Harris County Election Department at (713) 755-5792.

HBCU Corner

Texas • OcTOber 26 - NOvember 1, 2015 Photo Credit: Earlie Hudnall

TsU reGenTs eLecT neW oFFicers

African

American News&Issues

senior earns UPs scHoLarsHiP

The Texas Southern University Board of Regents elected new ofﬁcers at its October 16 meeting. The newly elected ofﬁcers from left to right are; Samuel Bryant, Secretary, Derrick Mitchell,Chairman; Wesley Terrell, Vice Chair; and Marilyn Rose, Second Vice Chair.

VcHair soLUTions TeaMs To DeLiVer a sUPPLY cHain siMULaTion WorksHoP

AUSTIN - VChain Solutions announced today that it will provide a supply chain workshop for Huston-Tillotson University this fall. Designed to give undergraduate and continuing education students alike exposure to the supply chain field, the workshop will include the use of VChain’s ProActive simulation software to deliver a realistic supply chain experience. This workshop is the first supply chain education to be delivered at the University. “We are excited to start providing supply chain education for our students”, said Dr. Paul Anaejionu, HT’s Professor of Political Science. “There is a tremendous need for supply chain talent in the United States and in Austin, and we look forward to partnering with VChain Solutions to provide supply chain education that uses realistic, simulation training.” TO CONTINUE READING VISIT WWW.AFRAMNEW.COM

MARSHALL - Wiley senior Jamyron Bee has been selected to receive a scholarship from UPS in partnership with the Independent Colleges and Universities of Texas Foundation (ICUT) and the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC). A criminal justice major who is studying fully online this term from his home in New Orleans, Louisiana, Mr. Bee said he was happy to learn he was selected to receive the award. He has set his sights on graduating in May, and he is looking forward to using his education to help others. “I want to help juveniles and convicted felons who some may think have thrown away their futures,” said Bee. “I want to help them to take a step forward and turn their lives around.” Getting a shot at a second

chance is something Mr. Bee knows all about. A couple of years ago, he was facing the possibility of expulsion from Wiley after being placed on academic probation. “I wasn’t going to class. I wasn’t focused. As a result, my grades suffered,” he said. “I was the typical student who needed support and guidance.” Mr. Bee said faculty and staff members at Wiley told him he was blowing an excellent opportunity to get a college education. “I knew that if I went home, my family would be disappointed in me and I would be disappointed in myself.” He begin to apply himself to his studies and his efforts paid off. For the last four semesters, Bee has been on the dean’s list at Wiley. He credits the College and its faculty and staff for helping him realize his full potential. “I was going down the

Jamyron Bee

wrong path and Wiley helped me to turn it around,” he said. “Wiley helped me to become a man.” Bee plans to return to campus in the spring as a traditional student to finish out his education at Wiley. He will be the first person in his family to earn a college degree. This year, through the UPS, ICUT and CIC partnership, $88,200 in scholarships has been awarded to 36 low-income students at private institutions across Texas. To continue reading visit us online @ www.aframnews.com

Our Jobs. Our Money. Our Future. 3Creates Jobs for Houston 3Improves Safety

What is Proposition 7?

3Reduces Congestion 3NO New Toll $

Texas grows by more than 1,000 people every day. And, unfortunately, they aren’t bringing their roads with them. Proposition 7 adds billions for new road construction to make our roads better and safer. OCTOBER

Early Voting Oct. 19 - 30

NOVEMBER

Election Day

3NO New Taxes 3NO New Debt

How will Proposition 7 Affect You?

Proposition 7 adds billions for new roads and bridges without raising taxes, fees or new money for tolls. The legislature did their job. Now it’s up to the voters.

Vote “YES” on Prop. 7 Political ad paid for by Texas Infrastructure Now PAC, Karen Rove, Treasurer. TX-11

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